KidzView: Skiing is cool again. Think of the X-Games, big air & the new counter culture. Shaped skis are hot. Shorter and wider, you can go faster and catch some edge. Check out snowskates or some of those short trick skis. You can have fun anywhere. Terrain parks, gullies, pow, you name it. But be sure to wear a helmet, this year's colors are awesome. Beginners will love the moving carpets - side step what? And look for new programs at school - ski rangers, kid's camp, school's just not school anymore. Who wants to ski with Mom and Dad anyway?

For Sanity's Sake: Arrive early to your ski destination. It's less crowded, you can get a bite to eat early and get the kids geared up and skiing before the crowds arrive. If you are enrolling them in ski school, see if you can make a reservation on line or by phone. Picnic lunches work great- not to mention how much money it saves. Think about a break at 11 and again at 2. You'll miss the crowds and keep your kids fueled up for fun. Consider a multi-day ticket that can be used at various resorts.

Tips:

Gear: Keep a packed gear bag in the car with extra mittens, headbands, sunglasses, goggles, sunscreen, lipbalm, long underwear and Powerbar-like snacks. It is only a matter of time before someone forgets something. Think no-brainer.

Clothing: Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. Try polypropylene underwear, turtleneck, sweater and jacket. Shed a layer at lunchtime if necessary. Try a wicking layer of fleece on cold days.

Eyewear: Don't even think about foregoing sunglasses or goggles. Eyes burn at the speed of light when light reflects off the snow.

Lost: Set a meeting place in the morning in case your child becomes lost. The information booth is a good one. Decide which lift you will ski next so if you get separated you can meet there first. Have the child carry his home and lodging phone number is his pocket.

Archived articles relating to Kidz Skiing:

• KidzStore: Buy ONLINE!
• Gear - Skiing, Rippin Rider Reports & more
• 2003/2004 Outerwear: What's New for Kids and Juniors?
• 2002/2003 Alpine Gear: What's New for Kids and Juniors?
• Shorties Make Learning Easy, archived 1/01
• Family Skiing, archived 12/17/99
• How Old is Too Young?, archived 12/17/99
• Safety on the Slopes, archived 1/21/00
• Take your Daughters to the Slopes Week (Jan. 31 - Feb. 6, 2000), archived 2/12/00
• I Can't Ski - Yes You Can!, archived 2/28/00
• A Family Affair - Lessons Together, archived 11/30/00
• Spring Skiing, archived 4/00
• Start Your Child Racing, archived 4/00